Visual identification tag deactivation

ABSTRACT

A device for deactivating an RFID portion on an identification tag and indicating that the RFID portion is deactivated. The present invention addresses current privacy concerns regarding potential use of RFID technology after the point of sale. The device for deactivating the RFID portion of an identification tag provides visual indication that the RFID portion is deactivated. The visual indication occurs without the use of additional equipment or electronics. The visual indication component of the present invention is easy to interpret, so that a viewer will be able to quickly determine whether the RFID portion of the identification tag has been deactivated.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to automatic identification devicesand more specifically to providing a visual indication of the dynamicstate of an identification device, such as an RFID device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of Electronic Article Surveillance, Radio FrequencyIdentification, and electronic security tag technology (hereinaftercollectively referred to as ‘RFID’) is becoming increasingly prevalentin manufacturing, inventory control, and residential settings. Firstused in the Battle of Britain to recognize friendly fighter planes, RFIDtechnology is now emerging as a valuable tool in our everyday lives. Forexample, RFID technology can be used by manufacturers or retailers toinstantaneously track product inventories and thereby adjust to specificinventory needs. Similarly, RFID technology can be used by automobilecommuters to pay highway tolls without interrupting their commute. RFIDtechnology can also be used by pet owners to provide reassurance thatpets are readily locatable, regardless of lost collars.

RFID technology involves the transmission of information through radiowaves. A typical RFID system includes an RFID tag and an RFID reader.The RFID tag includes a circuit chip and an antenna attached to thecircuit chip. The circuit chip and antenna are generally thin, flexible,and mounted to a flexible dielectric substrate. Antennas have numerousconfigurations and each is structured generally to broadcastelectromagnetic energy to a distant reader. RFID chips can be programmedto store a variety of information. For example, RFID chips often includeretail product identification such as a product serial number. In otherapplications, relatively more complex information may be provided suchas biometric information on an employee ID badge.

RFID technology provides efficient, instantaneous communication betweena reader and an RFID tag without directed near-field scanning as iscommonly required in more conventional automatic identificationtechnologies (e.g., bar-code, optical scanning, etc.). Further, the costof RFID technology has recently dropped making it particularly useful inopen supply chain applications, where disposable identificationtechnologies are desired. However, in spite of these benefits, andperhaps because of them, RFID technology has produced discomfort, fear,and paranoia in some consumers.

Many consumers fear that RFID technology could be used in an Orwellianmanner. For example, some consumers are wary that retailers may use RFIDtags to covertly track consumer purchasing habits, interests, orbehavior by placing hidden RFID readers throughout a retail locationsuch as a shopping center. The readers could detect RFID tags providedin various previously purchased articles (e.g., wallets, purses,clothing, etc.) located on the consumer's person, thereby remotelytracking, logging, and analyzing the consumer's movements as theyproceed through the shopping center. Although potentially benefitingretailers in terms of understanding, for example, which retail displaysare effective at drawing consumer interest, many consumers view theabove use of RFID technology as an unwarranted invasion of privacy.Accordingly, consumer groups have mobilized to prevent such use of RFIDtechnology. Such groups have strongly discouraged use of RFID technologyand have, in some cases, proposed legislation aimed at requiring retailstores employing RFID technology to install equipment that allowsconsumers to disable or de-activate RFID tags.

In view of the consumer objections referenced above, there is a need fora device associated with an RFID tag that is capable of deactivating theRFID tag in a manner that is visually apparent to a consumer. Such adevice should simple, economical, efficient, and should ensuredeactivation to the satisfaction of a consumer.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention addresses the above needs by providing a devicefor deactivating identification tags in a permanent and visuallyperceptive manner. The deactivation may occur manually or with the useof a deactivation device, and the visual indication occurs without useof additional equipment or electronics. Such visual indication is easyto interpret, so that a person viewing it will be able to quicklydetermine whether the identification tag is active or has been disabled.Identification tags capable of visually indicating this state (i.e.,active or disabled) according to various embodiments of the presentinvention are simple, economical, efficient, and capable of wide useacross many product lines.

In general, the present invention provides an identification tag forvisually indicating deactivation of at least a part of an electroniccircuit portion of the identification tag. The electronic circuitportion stores an identification associated with the identification tag,and a deactivation indicating portion is capable of visually indicatingdeactivation of at least a part of the electronic circuit portion. Thevisual indication may be an indicating color or an indicating indicia,and may occur under normal or alternate lighting conditions.

In other specific embodiments, the electronic circuit portion may beplaced between two layers such that when the layers are separated, aswhen a user manipulates one of the layers or uses a tool or othermechanism to at least partially separate the layers, at least a part ofthe electronic circuit portion of the identification tag is deactivated.A deactivating indicating portion then visually indicates, such asthrough an indicating color or indicia, that at least a part of theelectronic portion has been deactivated.

An identification tag of another embodiment of the present invention maybe deactivated by removing a coating that is adjacent to an electroniccircuit portion such that at least a part of the electronic circuitportion is deactivated. The process of removing the coating then revealsa visual indication of deactivation.

An identification tag of still another embodiment of the presentinvention may be deactivated using a pull-tab assembly that is designedto deactivate at least a part of an electronic circuit portion when thepull-tab assembly is removed from the identification tag. The process ofremoving the pull-tag triggers a deactivation indicating portion, whichmay be a two-part color generating system that results in visualindication of the deactivation.

Thus, the present invention provides a device for deactivating an RFIDportion of an identification tag and indicating that the RFID portion isdeactivated. The device for deactivating the RFID portion providesvisual indication that the RFID portion is deactivated. The visualindication occurs without the use of additional equipment or electronicsand it is easy to interpret, so that a viewer will be able to quicklydetermine whether the RFID portion of the identification tag has beendeactivated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will nowbe made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn toscale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a top view of an identification tag capable of visuallydetectable deactivation of an RFID portion in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1A is a cross sectional view of the identification tag depicted inFIG. 1;

FIG. 1B is a cross sectional view of the identification tag depicted inFIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C is a top view of the identification tag of FIG. 1, wherein theRFID portion is visually deactivated by separating a first layer from asecond layer;

FIG. 2 is a top view of an identification tag capable of visuallydetectable deactivation of an RFID portion in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 2,wherein the RFID portion is deactivated;

FIG. 2B is a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 2,wherein the RFID portion is deactivated and wherein such deactivation isvisually detectable;

FIG. 3 is a top view of an identification tag capable of visuallydetectable deactivation of an RFID portion in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 shows a top view of an identification tag capable of visuallydetectable deactivation of an RFID portion in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 shows a top view of an identification tag capable of visuallydetectable deactivation of an RFID portion in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 shows a top view of an identification tag capable of visuallydetectable deactivation of an RFID portion in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6A shows a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 6,wherein part of a removable coating has been removed;

FIG. 6B shows a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 6,wherein the RFID portion is deactivated and wherein such deactivation isvisually detectable;

FIG. 7 shows a cross sectional view of the identification tag depictedin FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 shows an exploded perspective view of an identification tagcapable of visually detectable deactivation of an RFID portion inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the identification tag depicted inFIG. 8;

FIG. 10 shows a cross sectional view of the identification tag depictedin FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 shows a detail cross sectional view of a central portion of theidentification tag depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 shows a detail cross sectional view of a central portion of anidentification tag capable of visually detectable deactivation of anRFID portion in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the identification tag depicted inFIG. 9, wherein the tape assembly has been removed to deactivate theRFID portion;

FIG. 14 shows a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 13,wherein the RFID portion is deactivated and wherein such deactivation isvisually detectable through an indicating color;

FIG. 15 shows a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 13,wherein the RFID portion is deactivated and wherein such deactivation isvisually detectable through an indicating indicia;

FIG. 16 shows an exploded perspective view of an identification tagcapable of visually detectable deactivation of an RFID portion inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of the identification tag depicted inFIG. 16;

FIG. 18 shows a cross sectional view of the identification tag depictedin FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 shows a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 17,wherein the RFID portion has been deactivated and wherein suchdeactivation is visually detectable through an indicating color;

FIG. 20 shows a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 17,wherein the RFID portion has been deactivated and wherein suchdeactivation is visually detectable through an indicating indicia;

FIG. 21 shows an exploded perspective view of an identification tagcapable of visually detectable deactivation of a portion an antenna ofan RFID portion in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 22 shows an exploded perspective view of an identification tagcapable of visually detectable deactivation an RFID portion inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of the identification tag depicted inFIG. 22;

FIG. 24 shows a cross sectional view of the identification tag depictedin FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 shows a detail cross sectional view of a central portion of theidentification tag depicted in FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 shows top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 23,wherein the RFID portion has been deactivated and wherein suchdeactivation is visually detectable through an indicating color;

FIG. 27 shows a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 23,wherein the RFID portion has been deactivated and wherein suchdeactivation is visually detectable through another indicating color;and

FIG. 28 shows a top view of the identification tag depicted in FIG. 23,wherein the RFID portion has been deactivated and wherein suchdeactivation is visually detectable through an indicating indicia.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not allembodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the present inventionmay be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed aslimited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodimentsare provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legalrequirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

The present invention provides a device for deactivating an RFID tag.The present invention also provides a visual indication that the RFIDtag has been successfully deactivated. In one embodiment, the RFID tagdeactivation and accompanying visual indication occur simultaneously,such that a user may verify that the RFID tag has indeed beendeactivated. In other embodiments, however, it may be appropriate tointroduce a delay between RFID tag deactivation and the visualindication of such deactivation. In either case, visual indication ofdeactivation according to various embodiments of the invention is easyto interpret, simple, economical, and accurate as will be apparent inview of the disclosure provided below.

Referring collectively to FIG. 1-1C, one embodiment of the presentinvention includes an identification tag 10 having a first layer 11adhered to a deactivation indicating portion 50. In the depictedembodiment, the deactivation indicating portion 50 comprises a secondlayer 12. For purposes of the foregoing specification and appendedclaims the term “identification tag” refers to any system that includesa memory or identity and mechanism for communicating remotely with areader/encoder, such as remotely detectable tags that incorporate RFIDor other similar technologies. For example, identification tags mayinclude EAS tags, magnetic tags, RFID tags, RFID labels, smart cards,optical communication tags, capacitive tags, and the like. In thedepicted embodiment, the first layer 11 includes a tab 16 typicallydisposed at one corner. The tab 16 is comprised of a flap of materialextending from a portion of the first layer 11 such that a user, or adeactivation device may manipulate the tab 16. In other embodiments, thetab 16 may be attached to a portion of the first layer 11. In thedepicted embodiment, the second layer 12 of the identification tag 10includes an RFID portion 13 having an antenna 15. The depicted antenna15 is a single layer antenna disposed in a concentric patternsurrounding a circuit chip 14, however, in alternate embodiments, otherantenna structures may be used including multi-layered antennas andantennas of any shape. The antenna 15 may be constructed by any methodas is known in the art, such as by printing, etching, or by deposition.

It should be noted that the term deactivation device as used herein isdefined as any material, device, mechanism, tool, and/or combinations ofthe above that disrupts the operability of the electrical circuit,either mechanically or otherwise. The deactivation device may include,but is not limited to “tear tapes”, severing cords, fuses, andrudimentary tools. The deactivation device may also include attachmentof a portion of the electrical circuit to one component and anotherportion of the electrical circuit to another component, where the othercomponent is separable from the first component.

In various embodiments, the second layer 12 of the identification tag 10may include an adhesive (not shown) on a bottom surface 18 for securingthe identification tag 10 to a retail product or other item 19. In oneembodiment, the first layer 11 may be adhered to the second layer 12 bya second adhesive (not shown) that is less aggressive than the firstadhesive such that the first layer 11 may be separated from the secondlayer 12 without removing the second layer 12 from the item 19. Itshould be noted that in other embodiments, a patterned adhesive could beused so as to provide tamper evidencing.

FIG. 1B shows the identification label 10 having the first layer 11peeled away from the second layer 12. In one embodiment, a severingdevice, such as a cord 17, is located adjacent to at least a part of theRFID portion 13 of the identification tag 10. More particularly, in thedepicted embodiment, the severing cord 17 is disposed beneath thecircuit chip 14 and antenna 15 as shown. In alternate embodiments,however, the severing cord 17 may pass exclusively beneath either theantenna or circuit chip (not shown). Also, the severing cord 17 may beembedded in a dielectric substrate 9 that supports the RFID portion 13as shown. In alternate embodiments, the severing cord 17 may be fixedbeneath the RFID portion 13 by an adhesive or other coating.

In the depicted embodiment, the severing cord 17 is constructed of nylonsimilar to a fishing line; however, in alternate embodiments, thesevering cord may be constructed of such materials as plastics, polymerssuch as polypropylene, metal wire, fiber strings, woven nylon, Mylar®,paper, or other strong materials. In other embodiments, the severingcord 17 may comprise the antenna 15. In various embodiments, a first end17A of the severing cord 17 may be attached to tab 16 of first layer 11such that when the first layer 11 is peeled from the second layer 12,the severing cord 17 remains attached to the first layer 11. In thisregard, a user desiring to deactivate the RFID portion 13 of theidentification tag 10 simply manipulates the tab 16 and at leastpartially peels the first layer 11 away from the second layer 12. Thiscould be done manually and may also be done with a deactivation devicecapable of manipulating the tab 16 so as to at least partially peel thefirst layer 11 away from the second layer 12. The severing cord 17 ispulled upwardly with the first layer 11, thus tearing through the RFIDportion 13 and mechanically severing the circuit chip 14 and/or antenna15 as shown in FIG. 1C. Advantageously, severing cords 17 used inaccordance with the depicted embodiment permanently deactivate the RFIDportion 13 of the identification tag 10.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the second layer 12 iscoated by an environmentally reactive dye 22. Upon peeling and removalof the first layer 11, the second layer 12 becomes exposed to theenvironment. The environmentally reactive dye 22 is designed to reactwith an environmental stimulus such as oxygen, nitrogen, carbon,moisture, temperature, light, and the like. In one embodiment, thereaction may occur approximately as the reactive dye 22 is exposed tothe environmental stimulus, however in other embodiments, the reactionmay occur after a delay, or in still other embodiments, the reaction mayoccur after exposure to a combination of environmental stimuli. Inalternate embodiments, the deactivation device itself may provide theenvironmental condition that triggers the reaction, such as bygenerating heat.

In the depicted embodiment, the reaction between the dye 22 and theenvironmental stimulus produces a color change in the dye 22 thatresults in an indicating color that indicates to a user that the RFIDportion 13 of the identification tag 10 has been deactivated. Theindicating color may be any color, such as one that is distinguishablefrom the color of an exterior surface of the previously removed firstlayer 11 so that a user may readily identify a deactivated tag from onein which the first layer has yet to be removed. For example, in variousembodiments the environmentally reactive dye 22 may produce a red,orange, or black, “deactivated” color against a pale (e.g., white,yellow, etc.) exterior first layer color. The above color scheme may ofcourse be reversed as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart in view of the above disclosure. Alternatively, the color change maybe a color that is visible under alternate lighting conditions, such asunder ultraviolet or infrared light.

In an alternate embodiment, the environmentally reactive dye 22 may bedisposed in a pattern to form indicating indicia (not shown) such astext or figures. The indicating indicia may also include certainsymbols, or any combination of colors, text, figures, and symbols. Inone embodiment, the indicia may include words that clearly indicate to aviewer that the RFID portion 13 has been successfully deactivated,including but not limited to “DISABLED,” “DEACTIVATED,” and “SAFE.” Uponpeeling the first layer 11 from the second layer 12, the environmentallyreactive dye 22 reacts to the environmental stimulus as referenced abovethereby revealing the indicia to a user. In alternate embodiments, thetext may be printed in reverse, so as to be readable using a mirror orthrough a bottle.

In another alternative embodiment, the second layer may includepreprinted indicating colors and/or indicia such that when the firstlayer is removed, the preprinted colors and/or indicia are revealed.

FIGS. 2-2B depict an identification tag 110 capable of visualdeactivation in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention. The depicted identification tag 110 includes an RFID portion113 having a circuit chip 114 and an antenna 115. In one embodiment, theRFID portion 113 may include a fuse 119 disposed between the circuitchip 114 and the antenna 115. In other embodiments, the fuse 119 may bedisposed anywhere along the antenna 115 as will be apparent in view ofthe disclosure provided below. The depicted identification tag 110includes an exothermic dye 125 that coats an area proximate the fuse119. In one embodiment, the exothermic dye 125 may completely cover thefuse 119 as shown.

In various embodiments, the fuse 119 is structured to produce heat orlight when the identification tag 110 is selected for deactivation by auser. In one embodiment, the fuse 119 may be a weakened or narrowedportion of the RFID antenna 115 that shorts out when the identificationtag 110 is placed in an electromagnetic field over a certain magnitude.As the fuse 119 is shorted or otherwise activated, the fuse 119 producesheat or light as referenced above and thereby triggers an exothermalchemical reaction that changes the color of the exothermic dye 125 asshown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 2B collectively. The color change may produceany color that will indicate to a user that the RFID portion 113 of theidentification tag 110 has been deactivated.

Other embodiments of the present invention are shown in FIGS. 3-6.Common to each of these embodiments are identification tags 210, 410,510, 310 each having an RFID portion 213, 413, 513, 313. The RFIDportions 213, 413, 513, 313 include circuit chips 214, 414, 514, 314 andantennas 215, 415, 515, 315. FIG. 3 depicts an identification tag 210having a dye portion 226 in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention. In the depicted embodiment, the dye portion 226 is comprisedof an exothermic dye 225 and is structured to cover only a portion ofthe substrate 209 of the identification tag 210. In one embodiment, thedye portion 226 may possess a color substantially similar to thesubstrate of the identification tag 210 before deactivation of the RFIDportion 213. After deactivation of the RFID portion 213, the exothermicreaction described above causes the exothermic dye 225 to change color,thereby visibly distinguishing the dye portion 226 from the remainder ofthe identification tag substrate 209. Such embodiments may be useful forproducts that have colors that may be confusingly similar to the colorchosen to indicate deactivation, thus providing a contrasting borderthat surrounds a deactivated RFID portion 213. In alternate embodimentsof the present invention, it may be advantageous to choose a colorchange that will allow another automatic identification method to beused after visual indication of RFID deactivation has taken place. Onesuch embodiment is depicted in FIG. 4. In the depicted embodiment, theidentification tag 410 also includes a barcode 421. Upon deactivation ofthe RFID portion 413 as described above, an exothermic dye 425 causesthe identification tag 410 to change color, thereby visibly indicatingthat the RFID portion 413 is deactivated. The color change resultingfrom the exothermic reaction is such that the barcode 421 can still beread by a barcode scanner (not shown) after the exothermic reaction hastaken place. An example of such a color may be yellow, however the colorchange may be any color change that will allow a barcode scanner to readthe barcode 421 after the exothermal reaction has taken place. As notedabove, in other embodiments the color change may be visible underalternate lighting conditions, such as under ultraviolet or infraredlight. Also, the color change may only be located in certain parts ofthe identification tag. Embodiments such as this may be useful inapplications that may require later identification of an item usingother automatic identification technologies, such as barcode scanningafter the RFID circuit has been disabled.

This embodiment is of particular importance in instances whereredundancy is needed. If the RFID tag becomes faulty for some reason, auser could deactivate the tag which will reveal the bar code forsubsequent identification of the article to which the tag is connected.

FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the present invention. In thedepicted embodiment, upon deactivation of the RFID portion 513 byheating a fuse 519, an exothermic reaction with an exothermic dye 525causes indicia 522, such as text or figures, to appear on the surface ofthe identification tag 510 in substitution of a color change asdescribed above. In another embodiment, the indicia 522 may be appear inconjunction with a color change as described above. In one embodiment,the indicia may include words that clearly indicate to a viewer that theRFID portion 513 has been successfully deactivated, as described above.

FIGS. 6-7 show another embodiment of the present invention. In thedepicted embodiment, RFID portion 313 is supported by substrate 309,which is similar to that described above. Substrate 309 supports acircuit chip 314 that is connected to antenna 315. In the depictedembodiment, antenna 315 is located in a layer above circuit chip 314. Adeactivation indication layer 351 serves as a deactivation indicationportion and is located between circuit chip 314 and 315, as shown inFIG. 7. A removable coating 320 is also shown in FIGS. 6-7. Theremovable coating 320 may be any coating that is capable of beingmechanically removed by a user or deactivation device. In the depictedembodiment, for example, the removable coating 320 may be removed withthe edge of a coin. Such removable coatings are known in the art andtypically comprise foil or ultraviolet curable coatings. In the depictedembodiment, the removable coating 320 surrounds antenna 315, although inother embodiments, the removable coating 320 may be in close proximityto the antenna 315, such as covering antenna 315 or located belowantenna 315. When a user removes the removable coating 320, antenna 315becomes detached from circuit chip 314, thereby deactivating the RFIDportion 313. Upon removing the removable coating 320, an indicatingindicia 322 and/or an indicating color (not shown), which has beenpre-preprinted onto deactivation indicating layer 351, is revealed. Asnoted above, the indicating indicia may include color, text, figures,symbols, or combinations of the above. In the depicted embodiment, theindicating indicia 322 is a universal “no” symbol characterized by a redcircle and slash, overlapping a symbol referencing radio waves.

Another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 8-11.In the depicted embodiment, an identification tag 610 is shown havingmultiple layers that together visually indicate deactivation when theidentification tag 610 has been deactivated. In the depicted embodiment,the identification tag 610 generally includes an RFID portion 613 and adeactivation indicating portion 650. As shown in FIG. 10, thedeactivation indicating portion includes a dual indicating layer 671 anda deactivation device. In the depicted embodiment, the deactivationdevice is a tape assembly 655. As will be discussed in detail below, theRFID portion 613 is deactivated when the tape assembly 655 is removedfrom the identification tag 610.

In general, the RFID portion 613 is located between a first layer 611and a second layer 612. In the depicted embodiment, the first layer 611comprises an outer layer 616, and the second layer 612 comprises thedual indicating layer 671 and a dielectric substrate layer 609. Theouter layer 616 is constructed of a destructible vinyl or polypropylenematerial that is designed to fracture upon tearing, however it may beconstructed of any material capable of severing when the tape assembly655 is removed from the identification tag 610. A dielectric substratelayer 609 is included to support the RFID portion 613. It should also benoted that in other embodiments, the outer layer 616 and the dielectricsubstrate layer 609 may be omitted without deviating from the spirit ofthe present invention. In the depicted embodiment, the RFID portion 613and the tape assembly 655 are located between the outer layer 616 andthe dual indicating layer 671, and the RFID portion 613 is adhered tothe dual indicating layer 671. It should be noted that in order tosimplify the figures, FIG. 10 (as well as other like figures throughout)shows the first layer 611 separated from the RFID portion 613, howeverin practice, the outer layer 616 contacts and is adhered to the RFIDportion 613.

As shown in FIG. 8, the tape assembly 655 includes a pull-tab 656 and atape portion 657. The tape portion 657 is made of a polypropylenematerial as is common in commercially available “tear tapes.” However,the tape portion may be made of any material suitable for severing thelayers of the identification tag 610, including polyester, cellophane,laminates, and other materials including those described with respect tothe severing cord above. The pull-tab 656 may be integral with the tapeportion 657 or it may be a separate component that is attached to thepull-tab 656 such that when the tape assembly 655 is removed from theidentification tag 610, the tape portion 657 remains attached to thepull-tab 656. As such, the pull-tab 656 may be made of a polypropylenefilm or other like material, including those described with respect tothe tape portion 657, that allows for removing the tape assembly 655from the identification tag 610. In the depicted embodiment, at least apart of the tape assembly 655 is attached to the RFID portion 613. Thetape portion 657 may be attached in close proximity to the circuit chip614 with an adhesive 658. In the depicted embodiment, the tape portion657 is attached above the circuit chip 314. It should be noted thatalthough the identification tag 610 is depicted as having a particulargeometry, the identification tag 610 may have any shape that is suitablefor supporting the RFID portion 613, including but not limited to atriangular shape and a circular shape. Additionally, although thepull-tab 656 is depicted as having a particular geometry, it may alsohave any shape that is suitable for a user or deactivation device tograb in order to remove the tape assembly 655 from the identificationtag 610.

As noted above, in the depicted embodiment, the deactivation indicatingportion 650 also includes a dual indicating layer 671. The dualindicating layer 671 comprises a two-component color generating systemas is commonly known in the commercial paper industry with regard topressure sensitive copying paper and carbonless papers, as generallydescribed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,730,456 and 2,730,457 to Green et al., theentire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Thesepatents describe two-component color generating systems in which anencapsulated ink reacts with a reactant coating to produce coloration.The capsules may be specifically designed to react with an associatedreactant coating. When the capsules are ruptured, the ink reacts withthe reactant coating to produce coloration. Along these lines, the dualindicating layer 671 of the embodiment of the present invention depictedin FIGS. 8-11 generally comprises a two-component color generatingsystem. Referring to FIG. 11, a layer of capsules 661, containingindicating ink 665, is applied to a top surface of the dual indicatinglayer 671. Likewise, a reactant coating 662 is also applied to the topsurface of the dual indicating layer 671. In several embodiments, thereactant coating 662 may coat areas of the top surface of the dualindicating layer 671 that contain capsules 661, or the reactant coating662 may coat areas surrounding various areas containing the capsules661. In an another embodiment depicted in FIG. 12, the dual indicatinglayer 671 may be substituted with a two-layer system comprising a topindicating layer 751 and a bottom indicating layer 752. In thisembodiment, the top indicating layer 751 includes capsules 761containing indicating ink 765 on a bottom side of the top indicatinglayer 751, and the bottom indicating layer 752 includes a reactantcoating 762 on a top side of the bottom indicating layer 752.

Referring to the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8-11, and as indicatedabove, the RFID portion 613 is located between the outer layer 616 andthe dual indicating layer 671. The tape portion 657 of the tape assembly655 is attached to the top of the circuit chip 614 of the RFID portion613 with an adhesive 658. In various embodiments, the second layer 612of the identification tag 610 may include an adhesive (not shown) on abottom surface for securing the identification tag 610 to a retailproduct or other item. In various embodiments, a user desiring todeactivate the identification tag 610 manipulates the pull-tab 656 andpulls the tape assembly 655 across the identification tag 610. Thepull-tab 656 may be manipulated manually or through the use of a tool orother similar mechanism capable of manipulating the pull-tab 656. Assuch, the pull-tab 656 may include various indicia 659 instructing auser regarding how to pull the tape assembly 655 in order to deactivatethe identification tag 610. Likewise, the top surface of the outer layer616 may also include indicia (not shown) instructing a user regardingdeactivation of the identification tag 610.

In the depicted embodiment, upon pulling the tape assembly 655 acrossthe identification tag 610, the circuit chip 614 remains attached to thetape portion 657 such that the circuit chip 614 is detached from theantenna 615, thereby permanently deactivating the RFID portion 613 ofthe identification tag 610, as shown in FIG. 13. As the tape assembly655 is removed from the identification tag 610, the circuit chip 614ruptures the capsules 661 containing the indicating ink 665 underneaththe circuit chip 614. As the capsules 661 containing the indicating ink665 are ruptured, the released indicating ink 665 is then exposed to thereactant coating 662 included on the dual indicating layer 671 in thearea in which the capsules 661 were ruptured. The reaction between theindicating ink 665 and the reactant then produces a visual indicatingcolor 673, as shown in FIG. 14. The color may be any color, and may be acolor that is distinguishable from the color of an exterior surface ofthe identification tag such that a user may readily identify adeactivated tag from one in which the pull tag assembly 655 has not beenremoved from the identification tag 610. For example, in variousembodiments the indicating color 673 may be a red, orange, or black,“deactivated” color against a pale (e.g., white, yellow, etc.) exteriorfirst layer color. The above color scheme may of course be reversed aswill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theabove disclosure.

Alternatively, the reaction between the indicating ink 665 and thereactant coating 662 may produce an indicating indicia 674. Theindicating indicia 674 may include text or figures that clearly indicateto a viewer that the RFID portion 613 of the identification tag 610 hasbeen successfully deactivated, including but not limited to “DISABLED,”“DEACTIVATED,” and “SAFE,” as shown by example in FIG. 15.

Another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 16-18.In the depicted embodiment, an identification tag 810 is shown havingmultiple layers that together visually indicate deactivation when atleast a part of an RFID portion 813 of the identification tag 810 hasbeen deactivated. The depicted embodiment is generally similar to theembodiment depicted in FIGS. 8-11, however, in this embodiment, the tapeportion 857 is attached below the circuit chip 814 with an adhesive 858.Additionally, the tape portion 857 is also adhered to a dual indicatinglayer 871, which contains a similar two-part color generating system asthe embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8-11. It should be noted that in otherembodiments of this invention, the dual indicating layer 871 may besubstituted with a two-layer system as described above.

In various embodiments, a user desiring to deactivate the identificationtag 810 manipulates the pull-tab 856 as described above and pulls thetape assembly 855 across the identification tag 810 in a similar manneras the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8-11. Upon pulling the tape assembly855 across the identification tag 810, the circuit chip 814 remainsattached to the tape portion 857 such that the circuit chip 814 isdetached from the antenna 815, thereby permanently deactivating the RFIDportion 813 of the identification tag 810, in a similar manner as thatshown in FIG. 13. In the depicted embodiment, as the tape assembly 855is removed from the identification tag 810, the tape portion 857ruptures the capsules 861 containing the indicating ink 865 underneaththe tape portion 857 of the tape assembly 855. As the capsules 861containing the indicating ink 865 are ruptured, the released indicatingink 865 is then exposed to the reactant coating 862 included on the dualindicating layer 871 in the area in which the capsules 861 wereruptured. The reaction between the indicating ink 865 and the reactantcoating 862 then produces a visual indicating color 873, as shown inFIG. 19. As noted above, the color may be any color, and may be a colorthat is distinguishable from the color of an exterior surface of theidentification tag such that a user may readily identify a deactivatedtag from one in which the tape assembly 855 has not been removed fromthe identification tag 810. Alternatively, the reaction between theindicating ink 865 and the reactant coating 862 may produce anindicating indicia 874. The indicating indicia 874 may include text orfigures that clearly indicate to a viewer that the RFID portion 813 ofthe identification tag 810 has been successfully deactivated, asdescribed above, and as shown by example in FIG. 20.

Another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIG. 21. Inthe depicted embodiment, an identification tag 910 is shown havingmultiple layers that together visually indicate deactivation when atleast a part of an RFID portion 913 of the identification tag 910 hasbeen deactivated. The depicted embodiment is generally similar to theembodiments depicted above, however, the tape portion 957 is attachedadjacent to a portion of the antenna 915, with the tape portion 957 alsobeing adhered to a dual indicating layer 971 (or, in other embodiments,a two-layer two-component color generating system as described above).In various embodiments, a user desiring to deactivate the identificationtag 910 simply manipulates the pull-tab 956 and pulls the tape assembly955 across the identification tag 910, in a similar manner as describedabove. Upon pulling the tape assembly 955 across the identification tag910, a portion of the antenna 915 located adjacent to the tape portion951 is severed from the remaining portion of the antenna 915, therebychanging the frequency response of the RFID portion 913 of theidentification tag 910. In the depicted embodiment, as the tape assembly955 is removed from the identification tag 910, the tape portion 952ruptures the capsules 961 containing the indicating ink 965 underneaththe tape portion 952 of the tape assembly 955. As the capsules 961containing the indicating ink 965 are ruptured, the released indicatingink 965 is then exposed to the reactant coating 962 in a similar manneras described above. Visual indication similar to that described abovemay then be produced to indicate that a portion of the RFID portion 913has been deactivated.

Another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 22-25.The identification tag 1010 of the depicted embodiment is similar tothose embodiments described above, however the RFID portion 1013 islocated between a first layer 1011, which comprises an outer layer 1016and a top indicating layer 1051, and a second layer 1012, whichcomprises the bottom indicating layer 1052 and a dielectric substratelayer 1009. As described above, the outer layer 1016 and the topindicating layer 1051 may be constructed of a destructible vinyl orpolypropylene material that is designed to fracture upon tearing,however each or both of the outer layer 1016 and the top indicatinglayer 1051 may be constructed of any material capable of severing whenthe tape assembly 1055 is removed from the identification tag 1010. Asnoted above, in other embodiments, the outer layer 1016 and dielectricsubstrate layer 1009 may be omitted without deviating from the spirit ofthe present invention.

The deactivation indicating portion 1050 of the depicted embodimentincludes the top indicating layer 1051 and the bottom indicating layer1052. Together the top indicating layer 1051 and the bottom indicatinglayer 1052 create a separated two part two-component color generatingsystem. Referring to FIG. 25, a layer of capsules 1061 containingindicating ink 1065 is applied to a bottom surface of the top indicatinglayer 1051. Likewise, a reactant coating 1062 is applied to a topsurface of the bottom indicating layer 1052.

The RFID portion 1013 is located between the top indicating layer 1051and the bottom indicating layer 1052. In the depicted embodiment, thetape portion 1057 of the tape assembly 1055 is attached to the top ofthe circuit chip 1014 of the RFID portion, however as described above,the tape portion 1057 may alternatively be located below the RFIDportion 1013. In the depicted embodiment, upon pulling the tape assembly1055 across the identification tag 1010, the circuit chip 1014 remainsattached to the tape portion 1057 such that the RFID portion 1013 isdeactivated. As the tape assembly 1055 is removed from theidentification tag 1010, the tape portion 1057 severs the top indicatinglayer 1051. As the top indicating layer 1051 is severed, capsules 1061containing the indicating ink 1065 are ruptured along tear lines 1081(shown in FIGS. 26-28). The released indicating ink 1065 is then exposedto the reactant coating 1062 included on the bottom indicating layer1052. In one embodiment, relatively small capsules 1061 are used on thefirst indicating layer 1051 such that the reaction between theindicating ink and the reactant produces a visual indicating color 1073along the tear lines 1081, as shown in FIG. 26. In another embodiment,larger capsules 1061 are used on the top indicating layer 1051 such thatthe indicating ink is exposed to a greater area of the reactant coating1062 on the bottom indicating layer 1052 resulting in an indicatingcolor 1073A covering a larger area, as shown in FIG. 27. Alternatively,the reaction between the indicating ink 1065 and the reactant coating1062 may produce an indicating indicia 1074, as shown in FIG. 28.

In response to privacy concerns with regard to the increased use of RFIDtechnology, the present invention provides a device for deactivating anRFID portion located on an identification tag, and also provides visualindication that an RFID portion has been deactivated. Deactivation ofthe RFID portion triggers a visual indication that the RFID portion isdeactivated, thus resulting in an accurate representation of RFIDdeactivation. So designed, deactivation of an RFID portion will beapparent to a viewer without the use of additional equipment orelectronics.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which thisinvention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in theforegoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is tobe understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specificembodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments areintended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a genericand descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

1. An identification tag for visually indicating deactivation, saididentification tag comprising: an electronic circuit portion for storingan identification associated with said tag; and a deactivationindicating portion, wherein said deactivation indicating portion iscapable of visually indicating deactivation of at least a part of saidelectronic circuit portion.
 2. The identification tag of claim 1,wherein said electronic circuit is mechanically deactivated.
 3. Theidentification tag of claim 1, wherein said electronic circuit isdeactivated using a fuse.
 4. The identification tag of claim 1, whereinsaid electronic circuit is deactivated using a deactivation device. 5.The identification tag of claim 1, wherein said visual indication ofsaid deactivation indicating portion occurs under alternate lightingconditions.
 6. The identification tag of claim 1, wherein saiddeactivation indicating portion indicates deactivation of at least apart of said electronic circuit portion by providing a visual indicatingcolor.
 7. The identification tag of claim 1, wherein said deactivationindicating portion indicates deactivation of at least a part of saidelectronic circuit portion by providing a visual indicating indicia. 8.The identification tag of claim 1, wherein said electronic circuitportion is an RFID tag comprising at least a memory and an antenna. 9.An identification tag for visually indicating deactivation, saididentification tag comprising: a first layer; a second layer; anelectronic circuit portion, wherein at least a part of said electroniccircuit portion is located between said first layer and said secondlayer; and a deactivation indicating portion, wherein said deactivationindicating portion is capable of visually indicating deactivation of atleast a part of said electronic circuit portion.
 10. The identificationtag of claim 9, wherein said electronic circuit portion is adhered to atleast a part of at least one of said first layer and said second layer.11. The identification tag of claim 9, wherein said visual indication ofsaid deactivation indicating portion occurs under alternate lightingconditions.
 12. The identification tag of claim 9, wherein saiddeactivation indicating portion indicates deactivation of at least apart of said electronic circuit portion by providing a visual indicatingcolor.
 13. The identification tag of claim 9, wherein said deactivationindicating portion indicates deactivation of at least a part of saidelectronic circuit portion by providing a visual indicating indicia. 14.The identification tag of claim 9, wherein said first layer has an outersurface having an outer surface color, and said deactivation indicatingportion has an indicating surface having an indicating color, whereinsaid indicating color contrasts said outer surface color, and whereinsaid indicating color is visual when at least a part of said electroniccircuit portion is deactivated.
 15. The identification tag of claim 9,wherein said second layer is coated by an environmentally reactive dyethat reacts when said environmentally reactive dye is exposed to anenvironmental stimulus.
 16. The identification tag of claim 15, whereinsaid environmentally reactive dye produces a visual indicating colorwhen said environmentally reactive dye is exposed to said environmentalstimulus.
 17. The identification tag of claim 15, wherein saidenvironmentally reactive dye produces a visual indicating indicia whensaid environmentally reactive dye is exposed to said environmentalstimulus.
 18. The identification tag of claim 9, wherein said secondlayer comprises preprinted text on a surface of said second layer, thatis revealed when said first layer is removed.
 19. The identification tagof claim 9, wherein at least a part of said first layer is adhered tosaid second layer with a first adhesive and at least a part of saidelectronic circuit portion is deactivated when said first layer and saidsecond layer are separated.
 20. The identification tag of claim 9,wherein at least a part of said first layer is adhered to said secondlayer with a first adhesive and at least a part of said second layer isadhered to an item with a second adhesive.
 21. The identification tag ofclaim 20, wherein when said first layer is separated from said secondlayer, said second layer remains attached to said item.
 22. Theidentification tag of claim 19 further comprising a deactivation deviceconnected to one of said first and second layers, wherein when saidfirst and second layers are at least partially separated, saiddeactivation device deactivates said electronic circuit portion.
 23. Theidentification tag of claim 22, wherein said deactivation device is asevering cord capable of deactivating at least a part of said electroniccircuit portion when said first layer is separated from said secondlayer.
 24. The identification tag of claim 23, wherein said electroniccircuit portion comprises at least an antenna and a circuit chip, andwherein said severing cord extends adjacent said circuit chip such thatsaid severing cord deactivates at least a part of said circuit chip whensaid first layer is separated from said second layer.
 25. Theidentification tag of claim 23, wherein said electronic circuit portioncomprises at least an antenna and a circuit chip, and wherein saidsevering cord extends adjacent at least a part of said antenna such thatsaid severing cord deactivates said at least a part of said antenna whensaid first layer is separated from said second layer.
 26. Theidentification tag of claim 23, wherein said severing cord is attachedto said first layer such that when said first layer is separated fromsaid second layer, said severing cord remains attached to said firstlayer.
 27. The identification tag of claim 23, wherein said electroniccircuit portion is adhered to at least a part of one of said secondlayer and said first layer, and wherein said severing cord is attachedto the other of said second layer and said first layer.
 28. Theidentification tag of claim 19, wherein said first layer comprises a tabportion extending from at least a part of said first layer, wherein saidtab portion is capable of being manipulated for separating said firstlayer from said second layer.
 29. The identification tag of claim 23,wherein said first layer comprises a tab portion extending from at leasta part of said first layer, wherein said tab portion is capable of beingmanipulated for separating said first layer from said second layer, andwherein said severing cord deactivates at least a part of saidelectronic circuit portion when said first layer is separated from saidsecond layer by manipulating said tab portion and at least partiallyseparating said first layer from said second layer.
 30. Theidentification tag of claim 29, wherein said electronic circuit portioncomprises at least an antenna and a circuit chip, and wherein saidsevering cord extends adjacent said circuit chip such that said severingcord deactivates at least a part of said circuit chip when said firstlayer is separated from said second layer by manipulating said tabportion and at least partially separating said first layer from saidsecond layer.
 31. The identification tag of claim 29, wherein said RFIDportion comprises at least an antenna and a circuit chip, and whereinsaid severing cord extends adjacent said antenna such that said severingcord deactivates at least a part of said antenna when said first layeris separated from said second layer by manipulating said tab portion andat least partially separating said first layer from said second layer.32. An identification tag for visually indicating deactivation, saididentification tag comprising: an electronic circuit portion; and adeactivation indicating portion comprising at least one indicatinglayer, wherein said at least one indicating layer is capable of visuallyindicating deactivation of at least a part of said electronic circuit.33. The identification tag of claim 32, wherein said deactivationindicating portion indicates deactivation of at least a part of saidelectronic circuit portion by providing a visual indicating color. 34.The identification tag of claim 32, wherein said electronic circuit isdeactivated using a deactivation device.
 35. The identification tag ofclaim 32, wherein said visual indication of said deactivation indicatingportion occurs under alternate lighting conditions.
 36. Theidentification tag of claim 32, wherein said deactivation indicatingportion indicates deactivation of at least a part of said electroniccircuit portion by providing a visual indicating indicia.
 37. Theidentification tag of claim 32, wherein said electronic circuit portionis an RFID tag comprising at least a memory and an antenna.
 38. Theidentification tag of claim 32, wherein said at least one indicatinglayer further comprises a removable coating, wherein removal of saidremovable coating provides visual indication of deactivation of at leasta part of said electronic circuit portion.
 39. The identification tag ofclaim 32, wherein said at least one indicating layer is located adjacentto said electronic circuit portion, and said at least one indicatinglayer comprises a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein said topsurface includes capsules containing an indicating ink, and asurrounding reactant coating that reacts when exposed to said indicatingink.
 40. The identification tag of claim 32, wherein said at least oneindicating layer is located adjacent to said electronic circuit portion,and said at least one indicating layer comprises a top surface and abottom surface, wherein said top surface includes capsules containing anindicating ink, and a surrounding reactant coating that reacts whenexposed to said indicating ink to create a visual indicating color. 41.The identification tag of claim 32, wherein said at least one indicatinglayer is located adjacent to said electronic circuit portion, and saidat least one indicating layer comprises a top surface and a bottomsurface, wherein said top surface includes capsules containing anindicating ink, and a surrounding reactant coating that reacts whenexposed to said indicating ink to create an indicating indicia.
 42. Theidentification tag of claim 39, further comprising a deactivationdevice, wherein when said deactivation device is removed from saididentification tag, said deactivation device deactivates at least a partof said electronic circuit portion.
 43. The identification tag of claim42, wherein said deactivation device is a removable tape assembly,wherein at least a part of said tape assembly is attached to saidelectronic circuit portion such that when said tape assembly is removed,said tape assembly deactivates at least a part of said electroniccircuit portion.
 44. The identification tag of claim 43, wherein theremoval of said tape assembly severs at least a part of said at leastone indicating layer such that at least a part of said indicating ink isexposed to said reactant coating.
 45. The identification tag of claim43, wherein when said tape assembly is removed, said tape assemblysevers at least a part of said at least one indicating layer such thatat least a part of said indicating ink is exposed to said reactantcoating to create a visual indicating color.
 46. The identification tagof claim 43, wherein when said tape assembly is removed, said tapeassembly severs at least a part of said at least one indicating layersuch that at least a part of said indicating ink is exposed to saidreactant coating to create a visual indicating indicia.
 47. Theidentification tag of claim 44, wherein said electronic circuit portioncomprises at least an antenna and a circuit chip, and wherein said tapeassembly is adhered to at least a part of said circuit chip such that atleast a part of said circuit chip is separated from said antenna whensaid tape assembly is removed from said identification tag.
 48. Theidentification tag of claim 44, wherein said electronic circuit portioncomprises at least an antenna and a circuit chip, and wherein said tapeassembly is adhered to at least a part of said antenna such that atleast a part of said antenna is severed when said tape assembly isremoved from said identification tag.
 49. An identification tag forvisually indicating electronic circuit deactivation, said identificationtag comprising: an electronic circuit portion; and a deactivationindicating portion comprising a top indicating layer and a bottomindicating layer, wherein said at least one indicating layer is capableof visually indicating deactivation of at least a part of saidelectronic circuit.
 50. The identification tag of claim 49, wherein atleast one of said top indicating layer and said bottom indicating layerincludes capsules, said capsules containing indicating ink, and at leastone of said top indicating layer and said bottom indicating layerincludes a reactant coating that reacts when exposed to said indicatingink.
 51. The identification tag of claim 49, wherein said top indicatinglayer comprises a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein said bottomsurface of said top indicating layer includes capsules, said capsulescontaining an indicating ink, and wherein said bottom indicating layercomprises a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein said top surfaceof said bottom indicating layer includes a reactant coating that reactswhen exposed to said indicating ink.
 52. The identification tag of claim51, wherein said top indicating layer comprises a top surface and abottom surface, wherein said bottom surface of said top indicating layerincludes capsules, said capsules containing an indicating ink, andwherein said bottom indicating layer comprises a top surface and abottom surface, wherein said top surface of said bottom indicating layerincludes a reactant coating that reacts when exposed to said indicatingink to create a visual indicating color.
 53. The identification tag ofclaim 51, wherein said top indicating layer comprises a top surface anda bottom surface, wherein said bottom surface of said top indicatinglayer includes capsules, said capsules containing an indicating ink, andwherein said bottom indicating layer comprises a top surface and abottom surface, wherein said top surface of said bottom indicating layerincludes a reactant coating that reacts when exposed to said indicatingink to create a visual indicating indicia.
 54. The identification tag ofclaim 49, wherein said electronic circuit portion is an RFID tagcomprising at least a memory and an antenna.
 55. The identification tagof claim 51, further comprising a removable tape assembly, wherein atleast a part of said tape assembly is attached to said electroniccircuit portion such that when said tape assembly is removed from saididentification tag, said tape assembly deactivates at least a part ofsaid electronic circuit portion.
 56. The identification tag of claim 55,wherein the removal of said tape assembly severs at least a part of saidat least one indicating layer such that at least a part of saidindicating ink is exposed to said reactant coating.
 57. Theidentification tag of claim 55, wherein the removal of said tapeassembly severs at least a part of said at least one indicating layersuch that at least a part of said indicating ink is exposed to saidreactant coating to create a visual indicating color.
 58. Theidentification tag of claim 55, wherein the removal of said tapeassembly severs at least a part of said at least one indicating layersuch that at least a part of said indicating ink is exposed to saidreactant to create a visual indicating indicia.
 59. The identificationtag of claim 55, wherein said electronic circuit portion comprises atleast an antenna and a circuit chip, and wherein at least a part of saidtape assembly is adhered to at least a part of said circuit chip suchthat said circuit chip remains attached to said tape portion when saidtape assembly is removed from said identification tag.
 60. Theidentification tag of claim 55, wherein said electronic circuit portioncomprises at least an antenna and a circuit chip, and wherein at least apart of said tape assembly is adhered to at least a part of said antennasuch that at least a part of said antenna remains attached to said tapeassembly when said tape assembly is separated from said second portion.61. An electronic circuit capable of indicating visually when theelectronic circuit is deactivated comprising: an electronic circuitportion; and a deactivation indicating portion, wherein saiddeactivation indicating portion is capable of visually indicatingdeactivation of at least a part of said electronic circuit portion.